One Killing Too Many: Northern Leaders Warn Over Uromi Massacre
A group of northern leaders has condemned the killing of 16 northern hunters in Uromi, Edo State, describing it as “one killing too many” and warning that the North may no longer be obligated to sustain Nigeria’s unity under such conditions.
In a statement issued on behalf of the victims’ families, the group—comprising Dr. Bugaje, Prof. Usman, Naja’atu Muhammad, Dalung, Gen. A.M. Jalingo, and Chief Ameh—demanded a full investigation and compensation for the families.
“This cruel and senseless massacre raises pertinent issues about the rights and privileges of northerners in Nigeria,” the statement read. “It appears that northerners are not entitled to the same rights as other Nigerians, especially in the south.”
The leaders cited past incidents involving the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) in the Southwest, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the Southeast, and the latest killings in Edo State.
“This pattern makes it abundantly clear that northerners are persona non grata in the South, while southerners are freely welcomed to pursue their interests and even permanently settle in the North in peace and security,” the statement added.
While acknowledging Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki’s visit to Kano, the group insisted that condolences were not enough.
“We demand a transparent investigation into the massacre and prompt, adequate compensation for the affected families,” the statement emphasized.
The leaders warned that they could no longer pacify their people in the face of repeated attacks.
“We can no longer appeal to our people to remain peaceful and accommodating while their dignity and lives are constantly under threat,” it read. “Any maltreatment of northerners will henceforth be considered deliberate, and we will not restrain our people from taking necessary steps to defend themselves.”
The statement also accused authorities of profiling northerners as criminals to justify violence against them.
“We unequivocally reject and will resist the systematic attempt to criminalize and exterminate our people using the instrumentality of the law,” they declared.
Finally, the group called on the federal government to address Nigeria’s national question, warning that if the situation persisted, the North might reconsider its role in the union.
“We are aware of and watching the Tinubu government’s attempt to introduce regionalism through the back door. While we welcome the quest for self-determination, all parts of Nigeria must come together to discuss and agree on the way forward,” the statement added.
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